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VCD Box
VCD Box
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| Synopsis |
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A woman's life all depends on her looks. So what happens if she's born ugly? This story is about a girl, nowhere near attractive, who was born where ugliness runs in the family.
This pitiful girl, who has no luck with men, thanks to her "not so pretty" looks, turned to her last resort: a face lift. She travels all the way to the Mediterranean to transform into a living beauty. Now she can finally get her hands on love and happiness. After returning to Japan, she starts a glamorous life as a fashion model: something she had always longed for.
Still, day after day, she is obsessed with the feeling that her big secret may come to light. The face lift was able to change her face, but not her "ugly personality."
She's an artificial beauty: vulnerable, fragile, and struggling for love. Will she manage to get the love of her life?
This is the ultimate love story that portrays every woman's dream. Be ready for a hilarious, stylish, gorgeous but sad romance.
Honami Saotome is made out of plastic. She's the artificial beauty. Honami seems to have the ideal life, working as a fashion model. Actually, behind her perfect face is a unfortunate girl, born into a family that has a long history of "the ugly bug." During her childhood, she was bullied for being ugly, and dumped tragically by the boy she liked. To bid farewell to all that and start a new life, she decides to have plastic surgery on her entire body. Thanks to her decision, she now leads the life of a princess. Nobody knows that behind her glamorous lifestyle, is a girl afraid that her secret may be found out, or that her face may fall apart. She struggles with her ugly personality that just won't wash away. Though Honami has the inner strength of never giving up, her arrogance of doing anything for her own happiness is just too much.
The other leading character is Ryusui Fujishima, the heir to a grand master of flower arrangement, whose philosophy is, "flower arrangement starts from hating flowers." Within this friendly gentleman who hates formality, is a lonely heart that won't let others in. This is a man that shows no arrogance despite the position he's in. He's actually tired of high society where relationships are just superficial. Ryusui is a man who values essence more than appearance, whether it's flowers or people. Thus, he is attracted not to Honami's looks, but to her tough and bold personality: like a wild flower growing between rocks. | | Fuji TV |
| Soundtrack and Theme Songs (2) |
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| 1. | Unchained Melody アシンメトリー [Suga Shikao スガシカオ] | | | 2. | Arcadia [Silva] | |
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| Drama Reviews (16) |
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!!WARNING!!
The review section may contain spoilers! Please understand
that you may find out about this drama's endings and plots!
| | 1. | Underrated dorama that delivers for romantics! [Rating: 9/10]
This dorama was actually one of the better ones of 2002, yet overlooked by many because it lacks the "star power" of a Kimura Takuya. The storyline addresses two major issues in Japanese society today: First, the huge obstacles placed against couples from different social status who want to marry (common problem where I lived in Kyoto & Tokyo); Secondly, the prejudice shown against those who opt for plastic surgery to improve their facial or body features (Which is so hypocritical when you consider how many Japanese actors & singers stay popular ONLY because of their own plastic surgery.) Yonekura Ryoko, as a beautiful and brassy model, delivers the most enthusiastic performance I've seen since Yamaguchi Tomoko's model role in Long Vacation. The problem is that talented Yonekura doesn't nearly have the supporting cast here as Tomoko did in LV, although Hanami's family will grow on you. Konishi Minami is also stunning eye-candy in her unique role. This is a funny, warm, and clever dorama that accurately portrays how important social status remains in Japan when it comes to relationships. While there is a deeper plot here than most give credit for, Seikei Bijin also provides a window into the stuffy world of ikebana in Japan, which I never much appreciated until now. The dorama music is memorable in a romantic, longing sort of way as the two main characters sort out their feelings for one another, in light of so many who are against their union. If you can sit still for more than 5 minutes at a time without falling asleep, you probably will enjoy this dorama and learn something about Japanese values & true love in the process. | | Reviewed by meruchan on 31 January 2005 | | 2. | Ryoko-san makes it work! [Rating: 8/10]
This drama is grand for so many reasons. First, we have this naturally gorgeous lead female (Ryoko-san) who plays a character in full abandonment of her physical appearance. Her character is silly, loud, obnoxious, and... dedicated. I love the use of flowers as a metaphor and how they sporadically tie the plot together.
The lead male reminds me of a slice of liver, but I am basing this observation solely on this role. He wasn't convincing enough and he was lucky to work opposite Ryoko-san, who managed to make up for all the things he lacked. In most of the scenes I truly felt like she was acting for two. You go girl!
I was a little disappointed that Honami (Ryoko) didn't go back to her normal self, but I do think they justified her remaining the way she was very nicely.
Other than the lame-o lead character, the only other thing I didn't like was that Honami's twin sister also wanted to have plastic surgery done after seeing Honami's success story. I mean, this isn't exactly sending out a grand message.
Regardless, a fun drama was a wicked lead female and a verra cunning antagonist (Manami). | | Reviewed by Wynter on 16 September 2006 | | 3. | A bit empty but still worth watching [Rating: 7/10]
This drama still employs a lot of the successful traits of most japanese dramas. It touches on the most obvious issue, which is having your appearance altered. There are so many things to go on with after that, such as "would the other person like them if they knew how they looked originally?", or "do things really change after the surgery?", and so on. This drama also tries to raise some moral issues, and explores other human traits, like most Japanese dramas. However, it's a bit empty throughout; you just don't feel for what the characters are saying or how they are feeling. They tried to make it touching but at the same time humorous, and the result was just a bit of both. But it's creative with the use of the fable as a background and other objects that they use throughout the story, such as flowers and the moon. I have to give them credit for that! | | Reviewed by Hiro Toyo on 18 January 2004 | | 4. | Very Entertaining!! [Rating: 10/10]
Because of the good reviews I read about Seikei Bijin in this forum, I decided to dl it and got hooked watching it. Ryoko did a good job in portraying Honami and her facial expressions are funny although exaggerated at times. At first I thought Kippei was not right as Ryuisu but as you go on watching you get to like his acting especially when Honami is creating havoc to his emotions while doing everything for him to like her. Ryoko and Kippei had chemistry as a couple. And I just love Honami's parents who are so down to earth and loving. Although it is an old drama it was really entertaining and you should not miss watching it. Another plus to the drama is the awesome Ost just love it. I'll probably watch it again!! | | Reviewed by myteddi on 8 August 2006 | | 5. | Nothing "Artificial" about this Beauty [Rating: 10/10]
Without any doubt, this romantic comedy (I don't care what people say, this ain't a drama) is a showcase for Yonekura Ryoko. She carries the entire series from beginning to end on her beautiful shoulders, and does it marvelously. Her character, Saotome Honami, evolves from the shallow, beauty-at-all-costs, spoiled girl to a thoughtful, considerate woman, all in part to her love for a stoic, respected ikebana master. Ryoko deftly demonstrates her wonderful flair for comedy throughout the series, but also a convincing sadness in the various dramatic scenes. And is Ryoko adorable, charasmatic, and beautiful? A big "YES" on all counts. A thoroughly and totally enjoyable romantic comedy. | | Reviewed by bmwracer on 11 April 2004 | | 6. | What a thrill! [Rating: 9/10]
From the first episode, I was hooked. The show is extremely funny, largely thanks to the immensely talented and beautiful Ryoko Yonekura (she's so beautiful I keep forgetting that she's a natural beauty). She portrays her character flawlessly and I fell for it totally. The storyline is pretty cute and every episode made me crave for more. I finished all 11 episodes in 1 sitting 0_0. That's how addictive this series can be. I like how the playful Honami and cool Ryusui are paired together. I thought it was a perfect pairing and appealed to the romantic in me ;P If only stuff like that happen in real life. Anyways, this drama is definitely worth a watch! | | Reviewed by hugefan on 16 October 2004 | | 7. | Very, very, very enjoyable !! [Rating: 9/10]
There are better doramas, but people, who talk badly about this dorama, must be too serious, deeply unhappy, or just violent.
The whole cast did a great performance - no doubt !!
Everybody's talking just about the protagonists, but I enjoyed all scenes with Ryohei (Kato Haruhiko) even more (who wouldn't love to have a friend like him ??!!!)
One great moment after the other...........a very lovable(i.e. laughable) humour, very sad & beautiful moments,........nothing else needs a good dorama to me !!! The story itself is not so important. Just look inside and you'll be surprised - I was !!!!!!!! | | Reviewed by honolulu on 22 October 2007 | | 8. | the most annoying drama i've watched [Rating: 2/10]
okay. i think the ingredients for a decent drama were there. the execution, however, left a disgusting taste in your mouth. i don't think i've ever rooted so hard for two people NOT to get together. the two main characters came off as being either annoying and selfish (the female lead) or cold and selfish (the male lead). i really could not connect with any of the characters no matter how hard i tried. superficial is the word that comes to mind when i think of this entire series. | | Reviewed by turbozed730 on 24 February 2004 | | 9. | Ryoko carries the show! [Rating: 8/10]
An unusually enjoyable jdorama with some rather quirky characters. Supported by a rather original story, Yonekuro Ryoko clearly carried the show with her superb acting, capturing the character of Honami exceptionally well. The rest of the cast was decent and the plot made for an enjoyable albeit predictable watch. Definitely a must watch simply to see Yonekura Ryoko's hilarious performance as Honami! | | Reviewed by Shindou on 1 April 2006 | | 10. | The Funny and The Good One [Rating: 8/10]
Okay the story was funny and quaite emberassing (Ryoko). She aftered Kippei every where and decide not to give up so easily (with funny way) to make him love her, and yet after that he interested to her and was falling in love to her.
And it's sure a happy ending, but it is a short ending too.
The soundtrack is good and match with the drama. | | Reviewed by rinarina on 31 January 2005 | | 11. | Ii Dorama desu [Rating: 8/10]
Ryoko chan is soooo funny in this. She has such charisma and "sugar power" to bring out the Honami character. I really like this dorama, light mood, great music, and well-paced story (I liked the story board about the Busu twins).
I like the way it ended too and its philosophy - Beauty IS important, damn right. | | Reviewed by FierceStriker on 26 March 2004 | | 12. | Worst Dorama I've seen [Rating: 1/10]
This was one of the worst Doramas I've seen. It was mean, it was weird (the sister falling in love with her bro) and obnoxious. Than the one who really does like her is jilted so she's just as bad as everyone else in getting the handosmer more sucessful guy. | | Reviewed by Electro43 on 23 April 2006 | | 13. | not bad [Rating: 7/10]
enjoy watching this casue of the way they explain how ryoko used to be ugly...funny when she is so worried abt ple finding out and sweet at times when her childhood fren likes her since young and tries to protect her | | Reviewed by himitsu on 29 May 2003 | | 14. | Not to be missed!! [Rating: 10/10]
The extraordinary chemistry between the two leads is almost magical. And it will take some magic for the goose dressed in swan's feathers to win over the handsome Prince! | | Reviewed by Eve on 9 June 2005 | | 15. | Good series [Rating: 7/10]
Yonekura Ryoko did g great job but Shiina Kippei didn't | | Reviewed by ester_grace on 29 March 2011 | | 16. | Great [Rating: 10/10]
like!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Reviewed by aumison on 2 October 2007 |
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| Comments From Users (74) |
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!!WARNING!!
This section may contain spoilers! Do not proceed if you
do not want to read about this drama's endings and plots!
| | 1. | Comments by donna8157 [Rating: 7/10]
A light-hearted romantic comedy that tends to highly exaggerate the importance of physical beauty. The episodes each begin with a little short animated sequence depicting a modern day fairy tale of a girl who marries a prince. I thought that this was pretty innovative and emphasized even more the fact that this was just a comedy, not one that should be taken the least bit seriously.
Yonekura Ryoko portrayed the main character wonderfully - how she took advantage of the fact that she had plastic surgery and used it, but it was nice to see that she oftentimes worried about whether the person liked her for herself or just for her looks. Shiina Kippei also does a great job.
Overall, this drama was fun to watch off and on especially because of Yonekura Ryoko's sometimes exaggerated expressions and reactions to certain situations, though it may not be for everyone because she does seem to emphasize a lot on physical beauty in the beginning. | | 2. | Comments by Beautiful_cloud_77 [Rating: 10/10]
Initially don't feel it would be a great J. drama like Yamato Nadeshiko (Perfect Woman) but after watching the 6th episode, I really fell in love with it and can't wait for it to be shown on TV each week. Though it not the first time watching Shiina Kippei but it no doubt the deepest impression I have so far. His charismatic performance glue me to the TV set. Though he seldom smile but my heart just melt seeing such a guy whom is devoted to his work and full of confidence instead of being arrogant which you'll find in most typical man in reality. Had seen Yonekura Ryoko in Love Revolution (another fav. J.Drama) but still prefer her role in Seikei Bijin (Artificial Beauty). Her bubbling, cheerful and daring character make her so lovable. Great theme songs by Silva [Arcadia] and another song (don't know who's the singer and song name)! | | 3. | Comments by Anime Dad [Rating: 8/10]
Very enjoyable drama.
The role of Honami was perfect for Ryoko-chan. She definitely has a flair for comedy! I was continually cracking up at her funny faces. I've been a fan of Ryoko-chan's for a while (of her photos anyway) but now I see what beem sees in her as an actress. The rest of the cast were perfectly suited to their roles too, especially Honami's kooky family Konichi Manami is unbelievably cute too! She's like a porcelain doll come to life.
The plot didn't hold too many surprises for me, and I was happy with the way it ended up. All in all, definitely worth watching | | 4. | Comments by sadacori [Rating: 7/10]
Originally an ugly duckling, Honomi gets a full-body makeover including a new face, new chest and liposuction. Though her outward appearance has drastically changed, her brash attitude and immaturity still remained. But through a series of events (becoming a model, making friends, finding a love that's reciprocated), Honomi slowly grows up and becomes a pleasant, considerate woman who thinks of others instead of herself. Though predictable, this was a pretty good Cinderella story. | | 5. | Comments by bmwracer [Rating: 10/10]
Okay, I'm a bit biased, but Yonekura Ryoko is terrific! She plays the ugly duckling who becomes a beautiful swan (with rough edges) perfectly. Ryoko-chan is just absolutely adorable... Lots of romance, comedy, drama, and interesting little plot twists. The other characters are very good as is the music, which is good without being overpowering, and it supports the story very well. Enjoyable from beginning to end. Highly recommended. | | 6. | Comments by phlargo [Rating: 8/10]
Great series. Ryoko as Hanami is perfect - she's absolutely adorable and fun and sweet.... and ridiculous.
While perhaps being tarnished some by an utterly forgettable last couple of episodes, it was a really fun series. I loved Honami's family and I thought that her childhood friend was brilliant in his role.
It was also cool to learn a little about ikibana and plastic surgery on the ride.
If you've got it, watch it. | | 7. | Comments by Shindou [Rating: 8/10]
An unusually enjoyable jdorama with some rather quirky characters. Supported by a rather original story, Yonekuro Ryoko clearly carried the show with her superb acting, capturing the character of Honami exceptionally well. The rest of the cast was decent and the plot made for an enjoyable albeit predictable watch. Two thumbs up! | | 8. | Comments by ABINTRA [Rating: 6/10]
A fairly entertaining drama. It was funny and touching at times, and made me think a bit, but ultimately didn't live up to what it could've been. I think the relationships, moral issues, etc. weren't resolved in a way that left me totally satisfied and on board with the show. Not a bad drama by any means, though. | | 9. | Comments by subaruppi [Rating: 7/10]
Happy, funny, feel-good drama. Honami (Yonekura) was annoying at times, and Shiina Kippei isn't the prettiest thing to look at, but you can still get a good laugh out of it. You gotta admire the woman in love. And the osana-najimi in love with her. Katou Haruhiko-kuuun!!! *snuggles* | | 10. | Comments by eltinator [Rating: 8/10]
Started off a bit slow but finished very strongly! Contains very strong messages in this drama mixed in with some good comedy. Ryoko really put this drama on her back and carried it through. Great performance by her and Konishi Manami is one messed up girl in this one :P | | 11. | Comments by kitakaze [Rating: 8/10]
I thought it was a good and entertaining comedy. Ryoko was over course, beautiful and funny. The only negative I found is that I didn't think the show probed too much into the underlying reasons why people want to make themselves look "better." | | 12. | Comments by pcmodem [Rating: 7/10]
Would be a 9 if not for the frequent attempted manipulations by Honami and the numerous ploys and tricks she does for attention, like a spoiled brat. Shiina Kippei gives an excellent understated performance as the ikebana master. | | 13. | Comments by cassius [Rating: 1/10]
probably one the most annoying dramas ive ever seen.
ryoko's character is sooo irritating that i was rooting against her. she is bordering on psycho stalker here. the male lead is worse with the charisma of wooden block. | | 14. | Comments by srm9240 [Rating: 5/10]
At first, the lead character was annoying and I didn't think I'd finish this one, but it ended up being pretty good. By no means a great drama, it's not as annoying as the first couple episodes would lead you to think. | | 15. | Comments by Sleepingstar [Rating: 6/10]
Ryoko is damn hot in this one and Manami just too cute... Setting seemed like it could have had some potential, but drama itself doesn't offer enough to be considered anything out of ordinary, it also dragged a bit. | | 16. | Comments by Geezer [Rating: 9/10]
The story of an ugly woman who invested all her savings in plastic surgery to make herself beautiful. She must have found a great doctor because he made her look like Ryoko Yonekura. Good job Doc. Funny show. | | 17. | Comments by MilkyWay [Rating: 9/10]
A metamorphoses from an ugly duck into a pretty swan in 11 episodes. Liked the acting and the story was pretty funny most of the time. Though, that whole artificial part is nothing that I like. | | 18. | Comments by Szabotage [Rating: 10/10]
I absolutely loved this one! The heroine was ditzy but really cute, and the romance was very sweet, especially in those rare moments when the hero smiled. Great ending. | | 19. | Comments by suerinn [Rating: 7/10]
Good, although sometimes Honami can turn into a really annoying person. She constantly boasts about her new image, but, in fact, she's the same dumb person as always. | | 20. | Comments by Tekanan [Rating: ?/10]
first 2-3 episodes were rather...'irritating' due to yonekura ryoko's 'ditzy' character. but after a while when she matures, things turned out quite interesting. | | 21. | Comments by aiscess [Rating: 7/10]
I thought that this was going to be hilarious since I read the synopsis of this series before watching, it turns out it's not but it has some funny moments. | | 22. | Comments by jdfan [Rating: 7/10]
Yonekura Ryoko was quite good in this dorama considered this was her first dorama as a lead. This is predictable but entertaining. It's a relaxing show! | | 23. | Comments by Okiunic [Rating: 9/10]
I liked this one too. not like i LOVED meteor garden or antique or be nice to people. but still, i liked it alot. it has a nice message...i think... | | 24. | Comments by Spider [Rating: 5/10]
This drama didn't keep my attention. Just average I thought. For me, Yonekura Ryoko tried too hard and over acted, and it just wasn't natural. | | 25. | Comments by SandyLovergirl17 [Rating: 10/10]
i love this drama... specially ryoko yonekura...,the leading lady... hope 2 see her in person... but i think,that is only in my dreams... :-( | | 26. | Comments by Ushiroyubi [Rating: 7/10]
Yonekura works as a comedic actress. and her silliness is difficult to get tired of. This drama is all about "going against the grain". | | 27. | Comments by kikkuman [Rating: 5/10]
ryoko looks hot and acts well but her character pisses me off, and the main guy is so godamn boring. MANAMI is the only saving grace. | | 28. | Comments by IniQx [Rating: 10/10]
the show that got me noticing Yonekura Ryoko. one of the best dramas i've watched. it's funny, it's touching, it's realistic. somehow. | | 29. | Comments by K.T.Tran [Rating: 10/10]
Such a funny drama, but also got some emotional parts too. Ryoko really made this drama happen. First drama i seen with her in | | 30. | Comments by ryce [Rating: 9/10]
It's interesting to see how the show handled the issue of plastic surgury... Great acting by Yonekura Ryoko & Shiina Kippei. |
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Read all 74 comments from users
| Users who voted for this drama (17) |
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| 1. | baggypantgpa
A very unique dorama. Although there are some parts that may be unnecessary, this drama makes us question what love really is. I believe that this drama teaches us that looks aren't everything...and that true love is. | | 2. | awrittensin
the drama that got me hooked on the beautiful, hot hot hot and talented Yonekura Ryoko! Insanely funny and soo romantic, you'll be pulling for Honami-chan! 5 stars! | | 3. | Taira-Panku
Seikei Bijin! This drama is funny and amazing! I could really relate to Ryoko Yonekura's character! This is one of my frist dramas that i will always love :) | | 4. | misato-chan
I loved this series. Ryoko was wonderful in it and she never failed to make me laugh. Recommended! | | 5. | Betsy Hayashi
Cute drama !!!!! And Yonekura Ryoko is great as Honami !!!!! | | 6. | margauxreizer
feel good..has lots of things to learn | | 7. | Emi801
Cute series! | | 8. | aumison
lovely | | 9. | angiemakino | | 10. | bmwracer | | 11. | SneffeL | | 12. | Hollywood | | 13. | linco | | 14. | akulaki | | 15. | kitakaze | | 16. | makky | | 17. | uscccs |
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